Greece

Greek drachma banknotes from the inter-war Bank of Greece issues to the runaway inflation of the German occupation, when values climbed into the millions and finally billions of drachmai in 1944.

Look for Alexander the Great, Athena and classical temple scenes. Most notes cost under $20, a good way into European and WWII banknotes.

History and frequently asked questions below ↓

About Greek drachma banknotes

During the occupation of 1941–1944 Greece suffered one of the worst hyperinflations of the 20th century. Notes rose from thousands of drachmai to 100 billion drachmai in 1944. In November 1944, after liberation, a new drachma replaced the old at 50 billion to one. The drachma remained Greece's currency until the euro arrived in 2002.

See also our World War II banknotes and hyperinflation banknotes.

Frequently asked questions

What was the highest Greek banknote?

The 100 billion (100,000,000,000) drachmai note of 1944, issued at the peak of the occupation hyperinflation.

Are Greek WWII banknotes rare?

Most were printed in very large numbers and are affordable. Condition and scarcer varieties make the difference, so we state the grade and Pick number of every note.

When did Greece adopt the euro?

Euro notes and coins replaced the drachma on 1 January 2002.

Are your Greece banknotes genuine?

Yes. Every Greece note we sell is a genuine banknote, never a copy or replica. Each listing states the grade, gives the Pick catalogue number where one exists and shows the front and back, and every order ships tracked from Hungary.